India Issues NOTAM for Major IAF Drills in Northeast Amid Dual-Front Preparedness

• India has issued multiple Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) across the northeastern region ahead of a series of large-scale Indian Air Force (IAF) exercises. The drills, scheduled for November 6, November 20, December 4, December 18, January 1, and January 15, 2026 , aim to enhance combat readiness and ensure operational preparedness along India’s eastern frontiers.

Large-Scale Air Operations

• The exercises will feature extensive air defence manoeuvres, multi-aircraft sorties, and rapid logistics operations from forward air bases in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and other strategic locations. The northeastern corridor—bordering China, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Bangladesh —is one of India’s most critical zones, making surveillance and quick deployment capabilities vital for national security.

Strategic Objectives

• According to defence officials, the drills are designed to test the IAF’s operational agility, communication systems, and joint command coordination . They will also validate the force’s readiness for high-altitude and multi-domain operations , strengthening interoperability among regional commands. The initiative is part of India’s broader effort to modernise its air defence network and maintain preparedness against emerging regional threats.

Significance of NOTAM

• A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) is a temporary advisory issued to restrict civilian air traffic over designated zones to ensure safe military operations. During such periods, civil aircraft are barred from entering the notified airspace to prevent conflicts with combat or reconnaissance missions. India frequently issues NOTAMs during military drills or heightened security situations to provide the armed forces full operational freedom.

Dual-Front Preparedness and Exercise Trishul

• Alongside the northeastern air exercises, India has launched Exercise Trishul , a major tri-service drill along the western borders with Pakistan. Conducted in Gujarat and Rajasthan , the 12-day operation involves the Army, Navy, and Air Force, featuring Rafale and Su-30MKI fighters , missile units, and naval assets.
• Together, the eastern and western drills highlight India’s dual-front operational capability , underscoring its readiness to handle simultaneous threats and reinforce its overall strategic deterrence posture .

Exam Pointers:

• NOTAM: Notice to Airmen – restricts civilian flights during military operations.

• IAF drills: 6 dates between Nov 2025–Jan 2026.

• Northeastern borders: China, Bhutan, Myanmar, Bangladesh.

• Exercise Trishul: 12-day tri-service drill on western front.

• Aim: Strengthen dual-front combat readiness and strategic coordination.